Sustainability Swaps
Climate change is overwhelming, and it can often feel that we personally have little control in mitigating it. While comprehensive change needs to come from the government and the private sector, many of us want to make changes in our own lives to reduce our carbon footprint– but where to start? Check out a snippet of ClimateRoots’ list of sustainability ‘swaps’ from us, to you, for some great ways to reduce your environmental footprint!
Reusable paper towels: there are a bunch of great options for reusable paper towels that you can throw in the wash or put in your compost bin. But better yet, repurpose some of your old T-shirts or rags!
Beeswax food wrap: cut down on cling wrap or ziplocks with reusable food wraps! These fabric based wraps allow you to store food free of single use plastic. You can also make them yourself if you have any extra fabric on hand (check out this how-to)
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, healthy, and sustainable! Having a reusable water bottle eliminates the need for plastic water bottles that are costly and have some of the most toxic chemicals in them.
Refillable or low waste cleaning products: Switching from single use cleaning products is a really easy way to cut down your kitchen/cleaning plastic waste.
There are refillable product lines from companies like Blueland or Grove that have a range of items from hand soap to a trio of cleaning sprays.
Switch from a liquid dish soap to a dish soap block for your sink dishes and Biodegradable dishwasher pods for your dishwasher! There is even solid laundry detergent!
Reusable menstrual products: Traditional menstrual products create a lot of waste and are often water intensive to produce. There are a bunch of sustainable swaps from menstrual cups to washable pads to period underwear. Not only do they reduce your monthly footprint, but will save you a ton of money in the long run.
Meatless Monday: You don’t have to go vegan to make a difference. It can help to reduce your consumption of water or land intensive food though such as meat and dairy, even if it is just once per week!
Transportation: If you have access to a subway, train, trolley, or shuttle these are great methods of transportation that drastically reduce your carbon footprint. Walking or biking are also great alternatives to a drive, and can help keep you healthy as well!
Mindful consumption. Ask yourself a few questions the next time you go shopping. Do I need this? Is it high quality enough to last a while? Is it made of natural fibers or plastic? Where was it made? Was it produced ethically? Does this company have sustainable practices?
To see the full list of sustainability swaps, click below.
